Calculating Operator Addition on Ket Vectors: Understanding the Dirac Problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the calculation of operator addition on ket vectors, specifically using the operator Sz. It is established that the action of Sz depends on its definition, which can either apply to the first ket, the second ket, or both. For example, if Sz is defined as S1z + S2z, the calculation would yield Sz|1>|0> = (S1z|1>)|0> + |1>(S2z|0>). Understanding these definitions is crucial for accurate calculations in quantum mechanics.

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rubertoda
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If i have an operator (for example Sz) and then add it on two kets in a row

i e. Sz|1>|0>

How could you calculate this?

should i first add it on the |1> and then the |0> ?


help please
 
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The answer would depend on how Sz is defined. Sz could be an operator that is defined to act only on the first ket in |1>|0>, so Sz|1>|0> = (Sz|1>)|0>. Or it could be defined to act only on the second ket.

Or, you could have a case where Sz = S1z +S2z where S1z acts only on the first ket and S2z acts only on the second ket. In that case Sz|1>|0> = (S1z|1>)|0>+|1>(S2z|0>)
 

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